Reproductive Freedom Project

The ACLU of Kentucky’s Reproductive Freedom Project is dedicated to protecting and expanding reproductive rights for all Kentuckians through education, advocacy, and litigation.

Our History

In 1989, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down the Webster decision, signaling that states would have greater ability to impose restrictions on access to abortion services. Recognizing the need for full-time staff resources dedicated to pro-choice advocacy work, the ACLU of Kentucky Reproductive Freedom Project (RFP) was founded under the guidance of Suzy Post, then executive director of the ACLU of Kentucky.

Advocacy

The RFP has a lobbying arm for state Reproductive Freedom issues.

We coordinate volunteer lobbyists.

Develop message points and strategy.

Arrange testimony before committees.

Litigation

The National ACLU and the ACLU of Kentucky have been involved in litigation for nearly all abortion rights case in Kentucky over the past four decades.

Public Education

The RFP, in concert with other groups, organizes public educational forums such as:

“Talking About Abortion” workshops to help people become more comfortable discussing the highly charged issue.

How Can You Get Involved

DONATE Contribute financially to the work of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project.

SPEAK OUT Join the ACLU Action Alert List to learn about legislation affecting reproductive freedom and how to call or write your elected officials. Or come lobby with us during the annual sessions of the Kentucky General Assembly.

RAISE AWARENESS Host one of our educational presentations.

Judicial Bypass

In Kentucky, if you are under 18 and have never been married you must have the consent of a parent or a judge before you can have an abortion.

If you decide to have an abortion and you cannot tell one of your parents, you have the right to get a court order from a judge.

It is very important to know your legal rights if you decide to seek a court order. You have the right to:

A Speedy Process: The judge must reach a decision quickly?within 72 hours (3 days) of when your case is filed in court. Often, the judge will decide immediately.

A Lawyer: If you don’t have a lawyer, the court must appoint one. It is best to go to court with a lawyer. The clinic can help get you a lawyer.

Free Court Costs: If you sign a form saying you can’t pay court costs, you won’t have to pay for either the court costs or the lawyer.

Confidentiality: No one should ever know you have been to court asking for permission to get an abortion. You have a legal right to go to court instead of telling a parent about your decision to have an abortion.

Answers to Questions: There should be someone in the circuit or district court clerk’s office who can answer your questions, either in person by phone. Never hesitate to ask questions. Your lawyer also can answer your questions.

If you are pregnant and unsure of what you want to do, you can call one of the organizations listed here for help. Counselors at a family planning clinic or the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice can help you decide. You don’t need a parent’s permission to see a counselor. These services are confidential.

Whatever choice you make about your pregnancy, these organizations and clinics are there to provide help and support because they care about your safety and well-being. Whatever choice you make, you do not have to go through the process alone.